Within the family-centered household, a variety of ages and subsequent activities, interests, and schedules will arise. The open floor plan tends to put everyone into the same mixing pot, as it were, and leaves them to fend for their private arrangements in a more public setting. “Enclosed spaces may work better in a house where everyone needs their space”.

Due to their, well, openness, open spaces thrive with the potential for horizontal surfaces. Work these horizontal planes (e.g., shelves) in wherever it makes sense and is useful. For example, the large “shelf” near the floor under this kitchen island work station is floating, which maintains an open feeling, but it also provides storage and decorative function within the space.